This silk kimono showcases the kata-yuzen dyeing technique, featuring an elegant chrysanthemum pattern against a rich purple background. The chrysanthemums are rendered in soft cream and pale pink tones, with some delicate gold foil outlining that adds luminous accents to the floral motifs. The flowers are depicted with flowing, naturalistic petals that seem to dance across the textile surface, accompanied by scattered individual leaves and petals that create a sense of movement and seasonal transition.
The chrysanthemum holds profound symbolic significance in Japanese culture, representing longevity, rejuvenation, and nobility. As the imperial flower and symbol of the Japanese throne, it also embodies perfection and spiritual power. The timing of this kimono's creation during the 1940s places it within Japan's complex wartime and immediate post-war period, when traditional crafts like kata-yuzen dyeing served as important cultural anchors. The artistic treatment reflects influences from traditional Japanese decorative arts, particularly the Rinpa school's approach to stylized natural forms, with its characteristic asymmetrical compositions and bold use of negative space. The flowing arrangement of the chrysanthemums across the garment's surface demonstrates the Japanese aesthetic principle of capturing the essence of seasonal beauty, while the sophisticated color palette of deep purple with cream florals suggests both elegance and the refined taste.
While in good condition, it does show signs of tiny patina spots. It measures 49 inches (124 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands at 61 inches (155 cm) in height.